Township Seeks Input on Priorities for Bala Community Reserve Fund

Community invited to identify priorities for enhancements that could be supported through the $192,400 Bala Community Reserve Fund.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, September 1, 2026 – The Township of Muskoka Lakes (“Township”) is seeking additional community input until September 30, 2026, to help identify priorities for the $192,400 available through the Bala Community Reserve Fund (“BCRF”).

The BCRF was established after the Township received funds from a temporary land lease agreement with Swift River Energy Limited (SREL) during the construction of a hydroelectric generating station in Bala. These funds remain unallocated and are intended to support projects that provide a lasting benefit to the Bala community.

Building on Community Feedback

In August 2025, the Township conducted an initial community survey to identify areas of interest and potential projects for the Bala community.

Following the initial survey and direction from Council, the Township is returning to the community for a second round of input to further define priorities for enhancements that could be supported within the $192,400 available.

To help focus this next stage of engagement, feedback from the initial survey has been grouped into several areas for consideration:

• Bala Bay Dock enhancements
• Additional boat parking
• Improved pedestrian infrastructure and connections
• Jaspen Park enhancements
• Windsor Park enhancements
• Muskoka Lakes Sports Park enhancements
• Bala Falls Road streetscape enhancements
• Community landmarks and public art

These areas provide a framework to help identify community priorities while considering the funding available and alignment with the Township’s Economic Development Strategy and Community Improvement Plan. The survey also provides an opportunity to submit additional ideas for consideration.

Planned Investments in Bala

As part of this process, the Township is seeking to ensure the BCRF complements, rather than duplicates, capital investments already planned for Bala through the Township’s 10-year Capital Plan. These planned projects include:

These projects will continue separately from the BCRF. The reserve fund will focus on additional enhancements that are not already planned and would not otherwise proceed without additional funding.

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For more information, please contact:
James Cox
Economic Development and Strategic Initiatives Officer
(705) 765-3156
jcox@muskokalakes.ca

For general, media or accessibility inquires, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca

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